Welcome Home

Getting ready to move into your new home can be overwhelming. You probably have a ton of questions about what you need, what it’s going to be like, and how it all works. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!

This page is your go-to resource for move-in details. You’ll find everything you need to make your arrival smooth, simple and stress-free.

MOVE-IN FALL 2026 Dates

  • Friday, July 31
    • Fall Athletes Group 1
      • Football, Men’s Soccer, Women’s Soccer, Volleyball, Cheer and Dance 
  • Tuesday , August 11
    • Fall Athletes Group 2
      • Women’s Golf, Men’s Golf  
    • ACE Jump Start 
  • Tuesday, August 18
    • First-Year Students
  • Sat./Sun. August 22 & 23
    • All returning students

Apply for housing 

Students must have UPIKE email and password to apply for housing. Housing applications must be received one week before your move-in date. Students must be registered as a full-time student prior to being allowed to move into a residence hall.

Click HERE to apply for housing. https://upike.housing.cloud/signin


Checklist 

  1. Check your UPIKE email for your scheduled move-in day at time.
  2. Come at your assigned time on your assigned day. Coming early/late will cause issues with crowding in the parking lots. “BEAR” with us as traffic patterns have changed due to exciting new construction on campus. See below for more information.
  3. If your assigned time does not work for you, respond to the email you received with your time and we will work to accommodate your request.
  4. If you have not applied for housing, you must do so no later than five business days prior to your move in day. If you’re experiencing issues with your housing application, please contact housing@upike.edu.
  5. New students must complete GROWL before they can move in.
  6. All students must be registered full time for Fall 2026 and have completed the Bear Pause process before they can move in.
  7. Commuter students do not need to attend move-in but you do need to complete the Bear Pause process before starting practice/games/classes.
  8. All students must be here/attend classes on days one and two of the semester to avoid being removed as a no-show.

Important Information

Pause… Are you ready to be a Bear? All students are required to participate in Bear Pause each semester to ensure all matters with admissions, the business office, financial aid, registration, and housing are in order prior to starting classes. Once a student is “cleared” by these various offices, they may check into their room with the Residence Life, participate in athletics and other activities, and attend classes.

Click HERE (https://www.upike.edu/offices/business-affairs/bear-pause/) for a list of Bear Pause items that must be completed. 

Attending a Bear Pause event is required for incoming students who do not complete, within the appropriate time frame, required processes with the following campus offices:

Admissions

    • Application Completed

    • Official Transcripts Submitted

Student Financial Services

    • MPN/Entrance Counseling for Student Loans

    • Verification Documents Submitted

Student Success

    • Class Schedule/Advising

Residence Life

Office of Business Affairs

    • Balance Paid or Payment Arrangement Established

    • Promissory Note Signed

    • Enrollment Deposit Paid (applicable to new students only)

Please note: You may be denied access to housing, activities, and classes if clearance items are not completed by your Bear Pause date.


Traffic Pattern Changes

Starting at 7:45 AM and ending at 5:00 PM on scheduled move-in dates. Please look at the map below for the traffic changes. 

  • STREET CLOSED: South Elm (Between Hambley Blvd. and College Street)  
  • STREET CLOSED: Kentucky Ave (from High Street to Willow Street Emergency Vehicles Only)  
  • ONE-WAY TRAFFIC: Poplar Street (passing Spilman and Page Hall to Willow Street)  
  • ONE-WAY TRAFFIC: High Street to Saad Ave   
  • INCREASED TRAFFIC: Use Extreme Caution at North Elm and Hambley Blvd near Bears Tower. Officers will provide traffic control at this intersection. Please follow their directions.   

Move-In Operations Center

The Move-In Operations Center is your central resource for assistance throughout Move-In. Whether you have questions, need directions, require housing support, or simply need help finding your next stop, our team is here to assist you. 

Need Assistance? 

Ask a Move-In Team Member 
Our staff, Resident Assistants, student leaders, and volunteers will be stationed throughout campus and are easily identified by their official Move-In Volunteer ID badges. If you need assistance, don’t hesitate to ask—we’re happy to help! 

The Move-In Operations Center will be open on each scheduled Move-In day from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Located in the Wickham Hall Student Lounge on the ground floor located conveniently in the breezeway leading to Allara Library. You can stop by in person or call 606-218-5229 for assistance with directions, housing questions, Move-In support, lost items, or any other concerns. 


Residence Hall Information

Click here for information about our residence halls. 


Construction Updates

As you arrive on campus for Fall Move-In, you may notice construction and improvement projects taking place across the University of Pikeville. 

Because of this progress, traffic patterns, parking locations, and some pedestrian routes may be different than in previous years. We encourage all students and families to review the Move-In maps and follow the directions provided by our Move-In Team and campus signage. 

Thank you for your patience, flexibility, and understanding as we continue building the future of UPIKE. Our staff and volunteers are committed to making your arrival as smooth, safe, and welcoming as possible. 

We can’t wait to welcome you to campus and help you begin an incredible academic year. 


Frequently Asked Questions and Answers:

How can I find out the room dimensions and what furniture is included?

Room layouts and standard furniture lists are available on our Residence Halls webpage at Residence Halls Webpage. This will give you a good idea of what to expect before you start packing.

What are the requirements that need to be complete before move-in?

Before arriving on campus, students must:

  • Complete the housing application
  • Be registered for classes with a finalized schedule
  • Complete GROWL requirements
  • Complete the Bear Pause process
  • Students who have not completed these steps may experience delays during move-in.

How can I get in contact with my roommate?

Your roommate’s and suitemates’ contact info can be found in the Housing Portal under the “Residency” tab. Click on their name to view available contact information.

We highly encourage reaching out before move-in to coordinate shared items like refrigerators or microwaves.

How do I request a roommate change?

Students can request a roommate change by emailing housing@upike.edu. Depending on the timeframe, all requests may not be fulfilled. Roommate change requests open up after the second week of classes.

Why do I move in five days before classes begin?

All new students are required to attend UPIKE FIRST Week New Student Orientation/ which is held during the week prior to the start of the fall semester and begins when first-year students move into their residence halls. This intensive five-day program includes sessions and activities allowing you the opportunity to learn more about what your college experience will entail.

What should I bring?

Start with the essentials:

  • Bedding (check bed size on the housing webpage)
  • Towels and toiletries
  • Laundry supplies (HE detergent only)
  • Trash can
  • Backpack and school supplies

Refrigerators must be no larger than 4 cubic feet and no taller than 35 inches.

We strongly encourage roommates to coordinate who is bringing shared items such as:

  • Refrigerator
  • Microwave
  • Television

To download a pdf copy of the item list above please click here What to bring guide.

If you have questions about specific items, please refer to the Residence Life Guidelines. For additional information or questions, please call The Office of Residence Life at (606) 218-5224.

What should I NOT Bring?

For safety reasons, the following items are prohibited:

  • Air conditioners
  • Candles or open flames
  • String lights
  • Electric heaters
  • Extension cords (surge protectors are permitted)

This is not an exhaustive list. Please refer to the Residential Living Guidelines or email housing@upike.edu if you have any questions.

What can I use to decorate my room?

We want your space to feel like yours — just not at the expense of the walls.

  • No nails, screws, tacks, push pins, or mounting hardware
  • No damage to walls, ceilings, doors, or furniture
  • Only low-adhesive removable products (painter’s tape or Command™-style strips) may be used
  • LED light strips with adhesive backing may not be attached to university surfaces

Any resulting damage will be billed accordingly.

When in doubt, ask before you hang it.

Make it Yours:

Is rental and property insurance available through the university?

UPIKE does not provide renter’s insurance, but we strongly encourage students to obtain coverage while living on campus. In many cases, coverage can be added to a family homeowner’s policy. You may also explore alternative providers at:

Renters Insurance-/

Is laundry free?

Yes. Laundry is free for residential students. Washers and dryers are available 24/7 in each residence hall.

A few quick reminders:

  • Use HE detergent only
  • Remove laundry promptly when finished
  • UPIKE is not responsible for lost or unattended items
  • Set a timer. Your future self will thank you.

Can I arrive early?

Students wishing to arrive prior to their scheduled Bear Pause date (see the “Bear Pause Information” section for details).

How many vehicles can I bring?

Students and Families are limited to two vehicles on upper campus during the Move-In process. Any additional vehicles will need to be parked off campus.

Campus will look a little different this fall due to ongoing construction. Please pay close attention to the instructions that will be sent to your UPIKE email address and listed below.

What is the best route to access campus on move-in day? 

Enter Pikeville using US 23 Exit 23. Directional signs and volunteers will be available to direct you through the move-in process.

What should I expect on move-in day? 

Here’s how it works: 

  1. Arrive at your assigned move-in time with your UPIKE ID.
  2. Check in at the designated tent.
  3. Receive your move-in materials.
  4. Follow Public Safety directions to your residence hall.
  5. Volunteers will be available to unload your vehicle and put your belongings into a moving cart. After unloading, move your vehicle to the parking garage. No parking will be available at residence halls.
  6. Return to your room and begin settling in.

Students will receive an email with instructions about move-in day. The email will come from cadeeeisenman@upike.edu or brandigollihue@upike.edu. Students and families need to follow these instructions. It is critically important that you arrive at your assigned time, typically sometime between 10 AM and 3 PM. If you are traveling a long distance and prefer an early or late move-in time email cadeeeisenman@upike.edu or brandigollihue@upike.edu.

Where do I go to start the move-in process? 

Arrive at your scheduled move-in date and time. Follow directions from Hambley Blvd. to the College Square parking lot. All vehicles must park in a designated parking spot. Follow the dedicated traffic flow pattern to enter and exit the lot. Walk to the tent where a member of the Bear Pause Committee will assist you. Please bring your UPIKE ID card with you. Travel to the end of the parking lot where a staff member will give you a Vehicle ID Card. Complete all information and place the card on the drivers-side of your dashboard, face up. Please adhere to the 40-minute unload time. After 40 minutes please move your vehicle to the Pikeville Parking Garage (Free Parking) located at 805 Hambley Blvd.

How will I know where to go after I check in at the Bear Pause tent on move-in day? 

Volunteers will be available to guide and support you throughout the move-in process. When you arrive on campus, look for signage and volunteers wearing “Welcome Home Bears” shirts.

Will I need my UPIKE ID card on move-in day? 

Yes. If you did not receive your UPIKE ID card during GROWL, we highly encourage all residents to visit the Business Office prior to or following their appointment in order to collect their UPIKE ID card, as several halls require this ID card in order to access the building after move-in.

What if I don’t receive an email with move-in instructions within two weeks prior to my move-in date?  

Email cadeeeisenman@upike.edu or brandigollihue@upike.edu as soon as possible.

How many people and cars can I bring with me? 

Move-in is limited to two vehicles per student on upper campus. U-Hauls, trailers, and other large moving vehicles are not permitted and must be parked off campus in the garage or a nearby parking lot.

If your belongings are in multiple vehicles, the vehicles need to stay together throughout the check-in and unloading process.

Can the furniture that comes with the room be moved out so that I can move my own in?  

No. All university-provided furniture must remain in the room. Please plan accordingly when bringing additional items.

Are carts provided to help move-in?  

Yes. Moving carts will be available in each zone on move-in day. Please return them promptly after use so they are available for other families.

How do I report any damages I find in my room when I move in?  

At check-in, you will receive access to your Room Condition Report (RCR) through UPIKE.Housing.Cloud.

You must complete and submit your RCR within 24 hours of check-in. Document everything carefully. Photos are encouraged. Any damage not reported on the RCR may be attributed to your occupancy. If you have questions, your RA or a Residence Life staff member will be available to assist you.

What if I cannot make it during my assigned move-in time? 

All move-in for Fall 2026 will be scheduled, and the number of appointment slots per hour will be limited. If your assigned time does not work for you, respond to the email you receive with your time, and we will work to accommodate your request.

Can I bring helpers? 

We are asking families moving in to limit the number of vehicles that assist their student. Due to limited space, only TWO vehicles at MAX will be allowed per student on the main campus during scheduled move-ins. Feel free to use the Pikeville Parking Garage (Free Parking) located at 805 Hambley Blvd. and carpool with your student.

How long do I have to move in? 

To help create a smooth Move-In experience for everyone, we ask that you unload your vehicle as efficiently as possible.

Parking is not available at the residence halls during Move-In due to limited space. Our Move-In Team and volunteers will be there to help unload your belongings, place them in moving carts, and assist with transporting them to your room.

Once your vehicle has been unloaded, you’ll be directed to the Pikeville Parking Garage (Free Parking), located at 805 Hambley Blvd. After parking, you’re welcome to return to your residence hall to unpack and get settled at your own pace.

Where do we park after we unload our vehicle?

Pikeville Parking Garage (Free Parking) located at 805 Hambley Blvd.

Can I bring a trailer with my items? 

Due to limited space, NO trailers of any type will be allowed on the main campus during scheduled move-ins.

How do I know when I move-in? 

Residential Students will receive an official email from the Bear Pause Committee with their scheduled move-in date and time.

When do I get my UPIKE parking pass? 

Students may register their vehicle and obtain a UPIKE parking pass by completing the online registration form.  UPIKE Parking Dashboard

To register, students must: 

Log in using their UPIKE email address and password

Provide complete vehicle information, including:

  • Make
  • Model
  • Year
  • Color
  • State
  • License plate number

Parking passes will not be issued without complete and accurate vehicle information.

Students will receive an email when their parking permit has been issued and is ready for pick-up at the Public Safety Office.

Permits are not issued on move-in day.

How do I connect my tv and gaming system to the UPIKE network?

  • Connect to the UPIKE-Onboarding Network from your mobile device in settings. Scan the QR Code below.
  • Select the STUDENT group and enter your UPIKE email address
    and password.
  • You will receive an email with your password and a tenant portal link, which you can manage. You can then connect to UPIKE-STUDENT with up to five devices.
  • For assistance, contact UPIKE IT Helpdesk at (606) 218-5300.

How can I connect to WiFi?

  1. Connect to the UPIKE-Onboarding network from your mobile device.
  2. If not automatically redirected to the Cloudpath page, scan the QR code.
  3. Select your user type (Student), then enter your UPIKE email address and password.
  4. You will receive an email with your password and a tenant portal link. You can then connect to the Wi-Fi network specified for your user type (UPIKE-Student).
  5. If you need further assistance, please contact the UPIKE helpdesk by emailing userservices@upike.edu or call (606) 218-5300.

Staff from Information Technology will also be available during move-in times to assist with your connectivity needs. Visit the Move-In Operations Center in Wickham Lounge for assistance.

How do I receive mail and packages on campus?

Students may request a campus mailbox through the housing application (limited availability).

All students may receive packages at the mailroom located on the ground floor of the Health Professions Education Building.

You will receive an email notification when mail or packages arrive.

Can I have guests in my room?

Guest visitation policies are listed in the Residential Living Guidelines available in the Student Affairs section of upike.edu.

Please review the policy carefully and communicate expectations clearly with your guests.

Is there parking reserved for residential students?

Limited residential parking is available near each residence hall with a valid and properly displayed permit.

Additional student and guest parking is available in the campus parking garage.

Complete parking regulations can be found on the Public Safety webpage.

If you still have questions, reach out to us at housing@upike.edu. We’re here to help, and we’re looking forward to welcoming you home!

 



Volunteer information 

Volunteers are an important part of creating a smooth, welcoming, and student-centered experience for our students and families. 

Click the button above to complete the Volunteer Registration Form. You will be asked what day(s) and time(s) you can join us and select which volunteer assignment you prefer. 

A mandatory training meeting will be held Thursday, July 30 from 10-11 AM in Armington Learning Center, Room 417. All volunteers will receive volunteer nametag and a “Welcome Home Bears” t-shirt to wear during move-in. 


Additional Resources 

UPIKE FIRST Resource Guide


Live Q&A Session

Click here to register –https://upike.zoom.us/meeting/register/HGPkfUS6RwWumsjcAy7gCQ


Contact Information

Questions about residence halls? 

Housing 
(606) 218-5224 
Housing@upike.edu 


Questions about your class schedule? 

Student Success 
(606) 218-5966 
Studentsuccess@upike.edu 


Questions about Scholarships/Financial Aid/Self-Service? 

Financial Aid 
(606) 218-5254 
Finaid@upike.edu 


Questions about UPIKE ID, BearBucks or Billing? 

Business Office 
(606) 218-5200 
ar@upike.edu 


Questions about transcripts? 

Registrar’s Office 
(606) 218-5260 
Registrar@upike.edu 


Questions about application status or missing items? 

Admissions Office 
(606) 218-5251 
Wewantyou@upike.edu 


Any additional concerns please reach out to Public Safety at:
UPIKE Public Safety 
(606) 477-0262 
_upikepublicsafety@upike.edu